Document Type
Report
Publication Date
4-1-2005
Abstract
Annually, the Social Science Research Center (SSRC) at Boise State University conducts a statewide survey of Idahoans to identify public policy opinions and concerns. The results of the survey are provided to policy makers and any interested citizen. This document is the full and final report of the survey findings. An executive summary was provided in January 2005 to legislators, state agencies, the press, and the public.
To accurately reflect the population of the state, the survey data is weighted to assign proper proportional populations to each of the six survey regions. Prior to year 2002, frequency data was used without weighting and regions were assigned a ‘quota’ to ensure adequate statewide representation. While the differences generally remain well within the acceptable error range, population weighted data more accurately portrays the statewide population. The difference in methodology is more apparent in the regional data where larger variation from the overall frequency data will be obvious.
The survey was administered to 531 Idaho adults (+18 years old) by telephone in November 9, 2004 and completed November 29, 2004. The overall statewide population is represented by the survey sample at a standard error estimated to be +/- 4.1% at the 95% confidence level. Since its inception in 1990, the survey has included a set of “core questions” which have been asked each year. These core questions relate to the problems facing Idaho, perceptions of and confidence in government, opinions on taxes, and satisfaction with program and service areas. Additional questions are asked that attempt to identify or clarify issues that are of interest and concern to Idaho citizens.
Additionally, a stratified sample also allows for general comparisons across six geographic regions. (Statistically speaking, the survey results are representative of the population of each region.) Figure I on Page 5 maps the regions in the state, and Table I identifies the standard error of the sample for each region as well as the weighted population basis used for the analysis.
Recommended Citation
Social Science Research Center, Boise State University, "16th Annual Idaho Public Policy Survey" (2005). Annual Idaho Public Policy Surveys. 18.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/ppc_pps/18